Why Mental Health Matters for Everyone: A Journey We’re All On

You’re not alone in this journey. We’re all in it together!

Photo by Emily Underworld on Unsplash

Mental health. It’s a phrase that’s become more common in our daily conversations, but what does it really mean? Why does it matter to everyone, not just those who are diagnosed with a mental health condition? In recent years, the conversation around mental health has gained significant momentum, but there is still a long way to go in ensuring that it receives the attention it truly deserves. Often overlooked or stigmatized, mental health is just as important as physical health. In fact, it’s integral to our overall well-being. In this blog post, we’ll explore why mental health matters for everyone—regardless of age, gender, background, or circumstances—and how addressing it can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life.

A Hidden Struggle

Imagine this:

You’re having coffee with a friend, catching up on life. She smiles, laughs at your jokes, and everything seems fine. But what you don’t see is the anxiety she’s battling underneath that smile. She’s struggling with thoughts that feel too overwhelming to share, fearing she might be judged or seen as weak. This scenario is more common than we think.

Did you know that 970 million people globally were living with a mental disorder in 2019? That’s 20% of us—people we know, work with, or love. Yet, many still suffer in silence, worried about the stigma or unsure where to turn for help.

The Impact on Our Lives

Mental health isn’t just about serious disorders; it’s about how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Think about the last time you felt overwhelmed by work, relationships, or just life in general. How did it affect you? Maybe you were short with your partner, couldn’t focus at work, or felt too exhausted to enjoy time with your family. These are all signs that our mental health is impacting our lives in more ways than we realize.

Let’s bring some numbers into the conversation. According to a large-scale study co-led by researchers from Harvard Medical School and the University of Queensland, one out of every two people in the world will develop a mental health disorder in their lifetime. Over 280 million people worldwide suffer from depression and 301 million people from anxiety disorders, while global suicide (up to 700,000 deaths per year) is a leading cause of death in young people. It is estimated that depression and anxiety alone are associated with up to US$ 1 trillion per year in economic losses. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that depression is a leading cause of disability worldwide. It's estimated that 1 in 3 women and 1 in 5 men will experience major depression in their lives. And it doesn’t just hit the person who’s struggling—families, workplaces, and communities all feel the ripple effect.

Why It Matters to You

You might be thinking,

“I don’t have a mental illness, so why should this matter to me?”

Here’s why:

Mental health is about more than just avoiding illness. It’s about thriving. It’s about feeling good about who you are, being able to handle life’s challenges, and maintaining fulfilling relationships. Whether you’re a student, a parent, a CEO, or someone in between, your mental health influences every aspect of your life.

For example, consider the connection between mental health and physical health. Studies show that people with untreated mental health issues are at a higher risk for chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. Plus, poor mental health can lead to unhealthy behaviors like substance abuse, alcohol use and poor eating habits.

The Power of Connection

Let’s return to our coffee date with that friend who seemed perfectly fine on the outside. What if, instead of keeping her struggles to herself, she felt comfortable opening up? What if she knew she could talk to you, and that you’d listen without judgment? This is where the power of connection comes in.

Building a supportive environment where mental health is openly discussed can make a world of difference. It can be as simple as checking in on someone, offering a listening ear, or sharing your own experiences. These small acts can help break the stigma and encourage others to seek the help they need.

How We Can All Take Care of Our Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s about integrating small, positive habits into your daily life:

1. Stay Connected: Maintain relationships with friends and family. Social support is crucial.

2. Be Active: Physical activity is a powerful mood booster.

3. Keep Learning: Engaging your mind with new skills or hobbies can help keep your brain sharp.

4. Give: Acts of kindness, big or small, can increase your sense of purpose and happiness.

5. Take Notice: Practice mindfulness by being present in the moment, appreciating the small things in life.

The Road Ahead

Mental health matters for everyone because it’s the foundation of our overall well-being. It’s not just about preventing or managing illness—it’s about living a life that’s rich, fulfilling, and connected. By talking openly, supporting each other, and making mental health a priority, we can create a world where everyone can thrive.

So next time you have coffee with a friend, remember—what’s on the surface isn’t always the full story. Let’s be there for each other, because mental health truly matters for everyone.